Get down to Somerfield today, loads of unbelievable bargains as they close for refurbishment.

What a great evening they prepared for us. They gave some brief presentations with lots of interesting stuff about the Co-operative, their history, and their philosophy. The design of the new store was covered, even including news about their special offers over Xmas.

They offered loads of tasty samples of food, hot and cold, served up by Co-op employees - mainly managers.. Plenty of different types of beer, wine, cider and soft drinks were available. They organised a fun quiz, and even a comedian (well Gerry, one of the Operations Managers, had some great lines!)

It was nice to see how a supermaket could engage with the local community, and through the membership concept to reflect the views of their customers in their business strategy.

What a difference to “whether you like it or not”!

Oh come on it didn’t take much to persude you did it? Some free wine and food and you’re sold. Bet if Tesco did the same you would soon change your mind. This isn’t anything to do with the community or the building it is just a pure and simple Tesco hate campaign for no good reason.

Actually the evening was extremely enjoyable and nothing too do with any Tesco hate campaign. Yes, if Tesco did decide to be actually intersted in the community and held a public meeting to discuss their ethical policies (if they actually exist) I would probably attend. As it is, I was very impressed with the presentation given about how The Cooperative own many British farms, pay a fair price to their producers, stock an increasingly wide range of fair trade products, help and support communities ( they have retrained and reemployed all the old Somerfield staff) and genuinly listen to their customers and the local community.

I don’t think Tesco can claim any of this!!

Oh, a lot of the food was nice as well, their irressitable chocolate cake is to die for.

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